The Higher Organizing Committee of the Zayed Charity Run announced that both the charity run and the Great Wall Marathon will return to Beijing’s Huairou district on September 27. The Emirates News Agency reported that the staging will draw approximately 15000 participants across multiple distances including a full marathon of 42 kilometers and a half marathon of 21 kilometers. A UAE delegation of more than 100 members will travel to support the event and join in the runs. This marks the second consecutive year for the combined races at the site after a successful prior edition that exceeded 17000 runners. The committee held a press conference in Beijing to outline final arrangements and partnerships with local organizations.
The Zayed Charity Run first launched in Abu Dhabi in 2001 to honor the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan according to the official event website. It made its international debut in New York in 2005 and expanded to Egypt in 2014 with the series now spanning multiple continents in the current season. The 2025-2026 calendar includes stops in Rio de Janeiro which drew more than 2000 runners in August as Emirates 24|7 reported along with upcoming events in other cities. Official figures from the Zayed Charity Run website place total participation across all editions above 613000 runners to date. Beijing’s edition continues the emphasis on uniting athletic competition with humanitarian fundraising.
Donations from the Zayed Charity Run have surpassed 172 million dollars for healthcare medical research and charitable causes since its inception the official website data shows. Previous runs in Huairou partnered with the district’s Women’s Federation Disabled Persons’ Federation Red Cross Society and Children’s Welfare Institute a Grazia Magazine overview noted directing funds toward local welfare projects. The route along sections of the Great Wall adds a distinctive cultural dimension to the physical challenge for international and local participants alike. UAE runners have consistently contributed to the events setting course records in full and half marathon categories during the first Beijing staging. The format promotes inclusivity with options for different fitness levels and age groups.
The UAE delegation will engage in additional program elements including pavilion visits that highlight the run’s origins and humanitarian goals the Higher Organizing Committee stated. These activities build on coordination between Emirati and Chinese authorities to ensure smooth operations for the large gathering. The series has grown into a global movement that connects sport with philanthropy across host nations. Past editions in Abu Dhabi and New York have supported specific initiatives such as kidney research and multiple sclerosis awareness according to event records. Beijing’s return aligns with the season’s expansion to six international destinations.
Organizers from the Higher Organizing Committee confirmed that all proceeds from the September 27 event will advance medical and community support programs in line with the run’s established mission. The Emirates News Agency noted that interest has increased since the inaugural Huairou edition prompting this rapid return. Delegation members represent various UAE sports and charity entities that have backed the series from its early days. Registration data indicates strong turnout from both Chinese and international runners ahead of the race day. The committee continues to monitor on-site details as the event draws near.
Cumulative results from the Zayed Charity Run demonstrate its role in raising awareness and resources for humanitarian needs the official website assessment found. Abu Dhabi has hosted numerous editions while international versions adapt to local priorities without altering the core focus on compassion and unity. The Great Wall Marathon component has helped elevate the event’s profile among global endurance runners. Participants in Beijing will contribute to ongoing efforts that have benefited hospitals and welfare institutes worldwide. Final participant tallies will be verified following race day registration.
